Advances in missile technology: impact of photonics

Abstract

This paper discusses the role and impact of advancements in Photonics Technology on the performance enhancement of guided missile weapon systems with specific reference to the development of Indian guided missiles program. India is emerging as a technologically strong nation with core competence in Space, Missile and Nuclear technologies, advanced computing including supercomputers and software. Based on the realization of the fact that high technology strength is the key to economic prosperity and military strength, India is progressing several high technology areas that help in attaining the global competitiveness. Photonics is identified as one of the important areas in this direction and hence high priority has been accorded for R and D in Photonics. This paper reviews the current trends and developments in missile technology and highlights some of the important developments in Photonics that have a force multiplying effect on the performance enhancement of guided missile systems.